Find Exceptional Care for Thyroid Cancer in the Stockton Region

Thyroid cancer develops in the cells of the thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck (just below the Adam’s apple). Most cases of thyroid cancer can be cured with treatment. Compared to other forms of cancer, thyroid cancer is not very common in the US. About 45,000 Americans are diagnosed with thyroid cancer each year.

The cancer care team, including expert neurologists and specially trained nurse navigators, at the St. Joseph's Cancer Institute are passionate about helping people with all stages of thyroid cancer receive the latest care for the most optimal outcome. If you would like to schedule a consultation for thyroid cancer in Stockton or a surrounding area, use our Find a Doctor online.

 

Thyroid Cancer Symptoms

If thyroid cancer is in the early stages, you may not have any symptoms. The first sign of thyroid cancer is a lump or swelling in your neck. You or your doctor may notice this lump.

As thyroid cancer progresses, the symptoms may include:

  • Trouble breathing or swallowing
  • Pain in the front of your neck that can spread to your ears
  • Hoarseness or other persistent changes in your voice
  • Constant cough

Speak with a doctor at Dignity Health if you or a loved one has any of the above symptoms of thyroid cancer.

 

Thyroid Cancer Risk Factors

While experts don’t yet fully know what causes thyroid cancer, there are risk factors that may make you more likely to develop the disease. 

Risk factors of thyroid cancer include: 

  • Genetics (gene mutations and genetic conditions)
  • Female gender (women are three times more likely to develop thyroid cancer than men)
  • Family history of thyroid cancer
  • Exposure to high amounts of radiation (such as from medical treatments during childhood)
  • Diet low in iodine (very rare in the US)
  • Age (most cases occur in people younger than 55)

 

The Latest Thyroid Cancer Treatment at Dignity Health

Experienced oncologists at Dignity Health provide a wide array of treatments for thyroid cancer. Your options for treating thyroid cancer will depend on the type and stage of the cancer. In most cases, surgery will be recommended to remove part or all of the thyroid gland.

In addition to thyroid surgery, standard thyroid cancer treatment may include:

Most people are completely cured of thyroid cancer in the early stages, before it spreads to other parts of the body.

The cancer care team at St. Joseph's Cancer Institute provides advanced care to treat all stages of thyroid cancer in the Stockton, CA region.